Les Brown
Band Leader, Composer, 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown'
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent American bandleader and composer, influential in the big band era. Founded 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown', contributing significantly to the popular music of the time. The band gained recognition for its performances in radio and television, especially during the 1940s and 1950s. Worked extensively with notable singers and musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry. Received awards and accolades for contributions to music and entertainment, cementing a place in American cultural history.
Led 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown'
Composed several hit songs during the Big Band era
Other People Born on March 14th
Dominik Tatarka
Slovak writer and literary figure
Born
March 14th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1989 36 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed significantly to Slovak literature and culture throughout the 20th century. Engaged with themes of identity and social issues, often reflecting the socio-political landscape of Slovakia. Wrote several important works, with his notable novel, 'The Man from the 4th District', exploring the complexities of life during the turbulent history of Slovakia. In addition to writing, involved in various literary and cultural initiatives and was an influential figure in the Slovak literary scene.
Continue ReadingKoča Popović
Yugoslav politician and Partisan commander
Born
March 14th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
1992 34 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in Yugoslav history, this individual played a significant role during World War II as a Divisional Commander of the First Proletarian Division of the Yugoslav Partisans. Taking part in the resistance against Axis forces, organized military operations in various regions. After the war, engaged in politics and held various important positions within the Yugoslav government, contributing to the establishment of socialist policies. An influential leader in the post-war period and involved in international relations for Yugoslavia.
Continue ReadingPaul Rader
15th General of The Salvation Army
Born
March 14th, 1934 92 years ago
Served as the 15th General of The Salvation Army from 1994 to 1999, leading the organization during a period of significant change and expansion. Focused on global outreach, Rader emphasized the importance of youth and community service within the movement. Worked to strengthen the international presence of The Salvation Army and initiated various social programs aimed at helping the needy. Prior to this role, Rader held numerous leadership positions within The Salvation Army, including serving as the territorial leader in the United States Western Territory.
Continue ReadingMike Lazaridis
Businessman, founder of BlackBerry Limited
Born
March 14th, 1961 65 years ago
An entrepreneur co-founded BlackBerry Limited, a company that revolutionized mobile communication by introducing the first smartphones with email capabilities. Under the leadership, BlackBerry became synonymous with business communication in the 2000s. The company achieved significant market presence, with its devices widely used by professionals around the world. Beyond technology, contributions to research and education were made through philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Lazaridis Institute, focused on advanced research in quantum computing.
Continue ReadingPhil Vincent
Engineer who founded Vincent Motorcycles
Born
March 14th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 71 years old
An English engineer and businessman established Vincent Motorcycles, offering innovations in motorcycle design and engineering. The company gained recognition for high-performance models like the Vincent Black Shadow during the mid-20th century. Commitment to quality and performance made the brand a prominent name in the motorcycle industry. Vincent played a crucial role in advancing motorcycle technology.
Continue ReadingCasey Jones
American engineer and railroad pilot
Born
March 14th, 1864 162 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1900 125 years ago — 36 years old
An engineer for the Illinois Central Railroad, gained recognition for a fatal train accident. Worked tirelessly to ensure safe operations and train schedules. On April 30, 1900, while driving the passenger train No. 382, made a heroic attempt to save passengers during a collision with a freight train near Vaughn, Mississippi. The incident highlighted the dangers of rail travel and led to changes in railroad safety practices.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 4th
Brian Gibson
Film director and screenwriter of 'Ladybird Ladybird'
Born
July 25th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2004 22 years ago — 28 years old
A director and screenwriter worked extensively in film and television. Gained recognition for the feature film 'Ladybird Ladybird', which showcased the struggles of a mother in a challenging environment and received critical acclaim. Also directed 'The Last of the Mohicans', a made-for-television adaptation that highlighted the complexities of the historical narrative. Contributed to the arts through various documentaries and television projects that reflected social issues. His work often emphasized character-driven storytelling and featured strong emotional depth.
Continue ReadingSalmaan Taseer
Governor of Punjab, Pakistan
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2011 15 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 26th Governor of Punjab from 2008 until assassination in 2011. Taseer was a prominent businessman and politician. He actively participated in the Pakistan People's Party and was an advocate for liberalization and minority rights. He played a significant role in various economic initiatives and remained vocal against extremism. Taseer's critique of blasphemy laws sparked substantial debate in Pakistan, resulting in both support and opposition from various sectors of society.
Continue ReadingGlynis Johns
British actress known for Mary Poppins
Born
October 5th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2024 2 years ago — 100 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, she gained prominence for her performances in film, television, and theater. The role of Winifred Banks in 'Mary Poppins' showcased her musical talent and charm, leading to lasting recognition. A distinguished career spanned several decades, featuring notable performances on stage and screen. Work includes appearances in productions such as 'The Court Jester' and 'The Happiest Millionaire'. The versatility in her performances earned critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Continue ReadingClarence Dutton
American geologist and soldier
Born
May 15th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1912 114 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent geologist and soldier, Dutton contributed significantly to the understanding of geology in the Grand Canyon region. Dutton served as a captain in the United States Army and participated in the survey of the American West. He was influential in the establishment of the U.S. Geological Survey, where he focused on geological mapping and studies. He authored several significant publications about the geological features of the Grand Canyon, emphasizing the processes of erosion and sedimentation.
Continue ReadingS. H. Kapadia
Indian lawyer and Chief Justice of India
Born
September 29th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2016 10 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the 38th Chief Justice of India from 2009 to 2010. Held positions within the Indian judiciary, contributing to the legal landscape and judiciary reforms during tenure. Entered the legal profession after graduation, gradually advancing through the ranks to become a prominent figure within the Indian legal system. Noteworthy for judgements that addressed critical social issues and constitutional law. Respected for legal acumen and ability to navigate complex legal matters.
Continue ReadingJoseph Hubert Reinkens
Bishop and academic in Germany
Born
March 1st, 1821 205 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1896 130 years ago — 74 years old
Ordained as a priest, held significant roles within the Catholic Church. Contributed to theological scholarship while engaging in ecclesiastical matters. Played a pivotal role in the Old Catholic movement. Opposed the dogma of papal infallibility established at the First Vatican Council. Advocated for a more regional and independent church governance.
Continue Reading